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Beech Bach

14 Thule Rd
Watercress Bay
Oban Stewart Island, Southland

Beech Bach

Beech Bach is a fully self contained tiny house (36 square metres) the width of the road and some steps from the golden sands of Watercress Beach. It has large windows for panoramic views across Paterson Inlet and Ulva Island.

It is perfect for one couple - not suitable for children.

Sit and watch the ever changing panorama of weather, boats, birds and, if you are lucky, dolphins and seals. Or walk along the beach at low tide and explore the rock pools.

Located a few minutes walk from Golden Bay it is the perfect base for exploring by water taxi or walking on one of the many tracks. Raroa Walk linking to the Fuchsia Walk to Oban is just a few metres away while the Ryans Creek and Deep Bay tracks are a few hundred metres in opposite directions.

Kiwi have been seen on the beach opposite in the early morning before dawn and after dusk while kaka, kereru, tui, bellbirds, tomtits and many other bush and sea birds, including little blue and yellow eyed penguins, can be seen during the day.

Deer have been known to come up the path and carry on up the section behind the bach.

The tariff includes use of a car and transfers to and from ferry or plane. Please note that on confirmation of booking you will receive the contact details for Fiona our manager. We require that you advise her of your travel plans at least 3 days prior to arrival to ensure prompt collection from your transport. If you have departure details these would be appreciated.T

here are some basic supplies such as milk,flour,sugar,rice,oil and seasonings. A well stocked 4 Square has other supplies and the Kai Kart and the South Seas Hotel have dine in and take aways. If you have special dietary requirements we advise taking these from the mainland to ensure adequate supplies.

The kitchen is very well equipped with fridge/icebox, dishwasher, microwave, gas hob, range hood, electric frypan, slow cooker, and full range of utensils, glassware and crockery.

The bed has an electric blanket, thick mattress topper, wool and feather duvets. Please note there is a step up to the bed as there is storage underneath.

Freeview TV, a selection of DVDs, games and books will keep you entertained after dark.

Water supply is rain water gravity fed from a tank at the top of the hill. Each mm of rainfall gives 30 litres of water so moderate conservation is required. Drinking water is filtered. Hot water is gas heated.

Built in the 1940s Beech Bach features on many postcards and publications. After falling into disrepair in the 2000s it has been extensively renovated to an "as new" standard with some special features sure to delight those with an appreciation of the quaint and quirky.A major effort has been made to utilise recycled materials in their original purpose or repurposing in creative ways while making the most of the available space.

As there are 22 steps from the road to the entrance it is not recommended for those with mobility issues. i.e you need to be able to carry your luggage and yourself up the steps.

Beech Bach bookings are managed by Liz on the mainland. The operation of Beech Bach is managed by Fiona and Heath on the island. It is they who will collect you and return you to your transport and introduce you to the bach. It is imperative that they have your arrival and departure details at least 3 days ahead of your scheduled arrival otherwise due to other guest commitments they may not be able to collect you immediately on arrival.